God's Eternal Purpose: Living in God's Presence - Zac Poonen
Austin CFC conference, session 3. July 12-13, 2014.
Summary
The speaker uses the symbolism of the Old Testament Tabernacle to illustrate key truths about God's presence in the New Covenant. He argues that merely following external patterns, such as those used by various church movements, is insufficient for true Christian identity. The true mark of a genuine gathering of believers is not adherence to ritual or structure, but the tangible presence of God—the 'fire'—which results in people being convicted and worshipping Him.
Outline
The message in plain words, in the order it unfolds. Select a time to jump the video to that moment.
Three vital titles of JesusThe Old Testament tabernacle and its parts served as a shadow pointing to deeper spiritual realities fulfilled in Christ.
Recognizing the true church by God's presenceAnyone can copy the outward pattern of a New Testament church, but only God can provide the fire and glory of His presence.
The role of faith and divine eagernessTrue faith believes that God is more eager to give what He has promised in the New Testament than we are to receive it.
Prophetic preaching that reveals ChristPreachers carry the heavy responsibility of speaking God's word accurately to meet the spiritual needs of everyone in the congregation.
Hearts burning on the road to EmmausJesus walked with the disciples and opened the scriptures from Genesis to Malachi, pointing entirely to Himself.
Christ must have preeminence in everythingGod's ultimate purpose is for His Son to have first place in every single area of our lives and personal ministry.
How to know you are in God's presenceA reliable test for walking in God's presence is whether you possess the fullness of joy described in scripture.
Eternal pleasures versus sinful desiresFeasting on the eternal pleasures found in God's presence keeps believers from hankering after the filthy pleasures of the world.
Moving through the tabernacle stagesThe tabernacle illustrates three levels of relationship with God: the outer court of forgiveness, the holy place of service, and the most holy place.
Jesus as our Forerunner into the most holy placeJesus went ahead through the veil, showing us how to deny our self-will and enter fully into the presence of God.
